MISHKEEGOGAMANG FIRST NATION,
JAMES BAY TREATY NO. 9, ON,
June 21,
2024 /CNW/ - The Minister of Indigenous Services,
Patty Hajdu, issued the following statement today:
"For generations, the summer solstice has been a time for many
Indigenous communities and groups to celebrate their culture and
heritage, and the important role and contributions of Indigenous
Peoples.
Today, Chief Merle Loon of
Mishkeegogamang Ojibway First Nation and I celebrated community
accomplishments and discussed key priorities at a gathering hosted
on National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Mishkeegogamang Ojibway First Nation leads the way when it comes
to supporting youth. Chief Loon and the community have decided to
prioritize services that young people are counting on. Through the
Choose Life program and in-community mental health services, young
members can get the help they need in a self-determinate way that
incorporates their culture and their language. Mishkeegogamang
Ojibway First Nation is showing the whole country what can be
achieved when governments follow the lead of Indigenous partners
and support their priorities.
Much of this country's societal landscape has been shaped by the
achievements of Indigenous Peoples. Generations of Indigenous
people have made invaluable contributions—touching all aspects of
life in Canada. But, it is
important to acknowledge that the experiences of many Indigenous
Peoples in this country have been tainted by a colonial legacy and
ongoing systemic discrimination.
We must continue to support healing from these wounds, and to do
this, I believe we must continue to walk together—in a true
Nation-to-Nation partnership—on the path to reconciliation because
the people of Mishkeegogamang Ojibway First Nation, too, deserve a
fair chance to succeed.
Congratulations to Chief Merle
Loon and the community on all their accomplishments. The
Government of Canada will continue
to be by your side as you show us the way to a better future. Happy
National Indigenous Peoples Day!"
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SOURCE Indigenous Services Canada